Hi °C | Lo °C Dispelling the notion that game meat has abundant health benefits, the Food Standards Agency issued a health warning for meat containing lead shot.
People who eat birds killed with lead shot are at risk if they eat more than 100g (3.5oz) per week. Pregnant women and children are especially at risk, says the agency, because "exposure to lead can harm the developing brain and nervous system".
And if that isn't enough to put you off, your readers may wish to visit Animal Aid's website - www.animalaid.org.uk - which contains undercover footage of industrial units that mass-produce and intensively farm pheasants and partridges, which are destined to become mere feathered targets for shooters.
Shooting birds for pleasure is an activity that leaves rather a sour taste in the mouth.
FIONA PEREIRA
Animal Aid
